In celebrating Juneteenth (June 19, 1865, end of slavery) we want to remember our ancestors with a special ritual that will honor them and empower ourselves. Keep in mind that your ancestors are a part of your First Line of Defense. In other words, they strengthen your circle of Spirit Guides and Protectors. This is a non-traditional altar set-up that can be done by anyone who chooses to strengthen their ancestral bond. This altar can also serve as a point of contact if you are unable to make frequent visits to a grave site. 

Items needed:

1) Clean surface area
2) White Cloth on the bottom
3) Smaller Green Cloth across the top of the White
4) Beautiful Flowers (Reds, Golds, Blues, Orange, Purples, etc.)
5) 1 White candle
6) 1 Glass of water
7) Photo of Ancestor(s) or something that represents them such as a paper that says “ancestors known and unknown” in a picture frame.
8) If you have dirt or remains from the gravesite of your ancestors, you can place it on the altar as well
9) Acacia leaves (used to contact the dead and open the mind to visions)
10) Frankincense
11) Myrrh

After you construct your altar, arranging the items attractively, create an incense with the Acacia leaves, Frankincense, and Myrrh. Light the candle and burn the incense while you recite the following:

God of the Most High, Creator of All things, I thank you for my Ancestors whom I honor and respect. On this day, I pay tribute to all those who have ascended to the afterlife and that have paved the way for positive change. As they watch and assist me and my loved ones that are still on this earthly plane, I give thanks for all things and pray that our bond will be forever strong. By the Powers that be. So mote it be.

Enjoy!